Pylkönmäki: Church, Cultural Landscape and Nature

Pylkönmäki is characterized by a hilly forest landscape. About 60 lakes and ponds are part of the scenery, surrounded by farms and pastureland. Historic architecture and leisure activities such as cross-country ski trails, disc golf and fishing complement this natural setting. The area’s diverse features offer points of reference for exploring Pylkönmäki according to your own interests.

Forest landscape and seasonal trails

Pylkönmäki has several cross-country ski trails of varying lengths, some of which are lit. In summer, the trails are used for running and walking. Their use therefore changes with the seasons: in winter, they are for cross-country skiing; in summer, they are available for running and walks. If you are planning activities, this seasonal difference is a useful point of reference.

Leisure activities in Pylkönmäki

There is a free seven-hole disc golf practice course by the school. It is suitable for all skill levels and can be used by everyone free of charge. However, the course markings are incomplete. There is also a lit artificial turf field at the school center, which is open for free use outside school hours. The conditions of use differ: the artificial turf field is available for free use outside school hours, while the incomplete markings are a practical consideration for disc golf.

The rapids are another local leisure attraction. Pylkönmäki has numerous fish-rich rapids that are particularly appealing to anglers. This means that, alongside the trails and sports fields, the waterscape is also a local point of interest. For travelers interested in fishing, this is another facet of the area.

Church and building history

Pylkönmäki Church was designed by Jaakko Kuorikoski and inaugurated in 1864. Its original furnishings include a pulpit carved by local farmer Taavetti Pajunen and a collection box in the shape of a poor man. The pulpit points to a local woodcarver, while the collection box stands out for its figurative design. Both objects give the furnishings a specific connection to Pylkönmäki.

Another chapter in the building’s history goes back to Alvar Aalto. In 1926, renovation drawings were commissioned based on plans by the young architect. Following Aalto’s plan, the church was given vertical wood cladding, and the spire was lowered. The 1864 inauguration and the commissioning of Aalto’s drawings in 1926 thus represent two separate stages in the building’s history.

The Mulikka–Laatokka Route

The Mulikka–Laatokka Route showcases typical local architecture and landscapes. Along the route are six small farmsteads, built between 1900 and 1920 for poor people and smallholders, as well as a small chapel. The farmsteads and the chapel represent different elements of the local cultural landscape. Those interested in rural heritage will find a different perspective here than in the history of the church: the focus is on the small farmsteads, their original purpose and the landscape along the route.

Pönkkä Pulling

“Pönkkä Pulling” is a tractor-pulling competition held in Pylkönmäki’s hilly landscape. The course is just under 300 meters long and has an elevation difference of 20 meters. These figures give a sense of the combination of course length and elevation profile. Dates and event arrangements are subject to change; if you are planning a visit around the event, check the latest event information.

Discover more destinations: Häkkilä, Petäjävesi, Äänekoski, Multia, Kyyjärvi, Kinkomaa, Laukaa, Kuhmoinen

For the regional travel overview: Central Finland.